Jackson Reid
Golf is a popular sport in England, with approximately a million active golfers who play at least twice a month. The country has more than 1,872 registered golf courses, the highest number in Europe. England is also home to some of the best and most historic golf courses in the world, including Royal St George's, Sunningdale Old, Royal Liverpool, and Walton Heath. The sport's popularity is evident through the presence of 785,000 players with golf club memberships or iGolf memberships, and 4.2 million adult golfers, making England one of the largest markets for adult on-course golfers globally.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of registered golf courses | More than 1,872 |
| Global ranking in terms of number of golf courses | 1st in Europe |
| Number of golfers who play twice a month | 1 million |
| Number of adult golfers | 4.2 million |
| Global ranking in terms of adult golfer market | One of the biggest in the world |
| Number of golf clubs affiliated with England Golf | 1,735 |
| County with the most golf club members | Yorkshire |
| County with the second-most golf club members | Lancashire |
| County with the third-most golf club members | Surrey |
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What You'll Learn
Popularity of golf in England compared to other sports
Golf is a popular sport in England, with English golfers like Lee Westwood, Tyrrell Hatton, and Marco Penge participating in major tournaments. Golf courses in England, such as Royal Liverpool, are also renowned and have hosted prestigious events like the British Open.
However, it is challenging to compare the popularity of golf to other sports in England directly. Sports popularity can be measured by participation rates, spectator attendance, media coverage, and commercial factors like merchandise sales and sponsorship deals.
In terms of participation, golf has experienced varying trends in England. While it is difficult to obtain recent data, a 2017 study showed that monthly golf participation in Scotland decreased from 9% in 2007 to 5% in 2017. In Northern Ireland, golf is nearly as popular as football, with 69% of golfers being male adults. Golf tourism has also contributed to the sport's popularity in England, attracting European tourists who seek golf-related trips and are willing to spend more on their vacations.
Comparatively, traditional team sports like football (soccer), rugby, and cricket have historically been considered the most popular sports in England, with substantial fan bases and established professional leagues. For example, football is often regarded as England's national sport, with a rich history of top-division leagues, iconic clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool, and passionate fan cultures.
Other individual sports like tennis and athletics have their own dedicated followings and have produced English stars who have achieved global fame, such as Emma Raducanu and Lewis Hamilton. These sports may attract more diverse audiences and participants, especially when considering gender equality and accessibility.
In conclusion, while golf is undoubtedly popular in England, with iconic venues and renowned golfers, its standing compared to other sports is subjective and multifaceted. Traditional team sports like football and rugby may have a broader appeal and deeper cultural roots, but golf has a dedicated following, attracts tourists, and continues to develop and attract participants and spectators worldwide.
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Number of golf courses in England
Golf is a popular sport in England, with the country being home to numerous golf courses. As of 2018, there were 1,888 official golf courses in England, according to Statista. This number places England among the top golf course destinations worldwide.
In fact, a 2019 R&A report on golf around the world revealed that England dominates Europe's golf course table. With 2,270 golf courses, England boasts the highest number of golf courses in Europe. This number accounts for almost a quarter of the 8,940 golf courses present across the continent.
The popularity of golf in England is further emphasised by the fact that Europe has the second-largest regional share of golf courses globally, with 23% of the world's total. This is second only to North and South America, which together account for 53% of the world's supply, with the US alone claiming 43%.
England's extensive golf course offerings contribute significantly to its reputation as a premier golfing destination. The country attracts golfers from all over, catering to a range of skill levels and preferences. The variety of courses available, from historic to modern designs, cater to the diverse interests of golfers, making England a sought-after golf destination.
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Historic golf courses in England
Golf has a long history in England, with the sport taking root soon after Queen Elizabeth I's death in 1603. When James VI of Scotland became James I of England, his entourage—which included golfers—found the perfect spot to play in Blackheath.
Royal Liverpool Golf Club
This course in Southport, England, has hosted The Open Championship nine times, including in 2017, and has seen the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. It was founded in 1869 and is known for its rich history of major tournaments, including the Ryder Cup in 1969.
Royal St George's Golf Club
Founded in 1887 by Scottish-born surgeon and golfer William Laidlaw Purves, this course was conceived as a rival to St Andrews. It has hosted The Open Championship multiple times, including in 2021. Known for its deep bunkers, undulating fairways, and unpredictable coastal winds, it offers a challenging and historic experience.
Royal Birkdale Golf Club
Established in 1889 and granted the "Royal" title in 1951, this course is consistently ranked among the world's top courses. It has hosted The Open Championship several times and has a spectacular golfing panorama.
Royal Devon Golf Club
One of the oldest proclaimed links courses in English golf, founded in 1864, this course is known for its natural, unaltered landscape. It is renowned for its unique approach to course maintenance, departing from conventional practices involving pesticides and fertilizers. Instead, it uses liquid seaweed and iron to maintain its greens.
Burnham & Berrow Golf Club
Located on the Bristol Channel's sandy shores, this course offers breathtaking views and a unique experience. The first nine holes run parallel to the water, before turning inland and south along the coast road.
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Golf season in England
Golf is one of the most popular sports in the UK, with over 3000 picturesque golf courses dotted across the country. While the UK enjoys golf year-round, the main golf season typically runs from April to September. During these months, the weather is generally milder, with warmer and longer days, providing the perfect conditions for golf. The unpredictable British weather can sometimes play spoilsport, even during the golf season.
The spring and summer months offer the most ideal conditions for a round of golf and are, therefore, the most popular among golfers. The milder weather, longer days, and near-tropical temperatures (if you're lucky!) make for a pleasant game of golf. These months also see more competitors and tournaments, providing an opportunity to test your skills and socialise with like-minded peers.
While the golf season technically ends in September, the warmer weather often lasts until late October, matching the temperatures in April. This has led to some discussions about extending the golf season. The autumn months offer the chance to experience UK golf courses at off-season prices, with less crowded courses and hotels.
Winter is a challenging time for golfers in the UK, with cold temperatures, rain, and snow making it difficult to play. Some courses may close due to heavy snowfall or other inclement weather, but many remain open for those willing to brave the elements. With unpredictable weather and global warming's milder winters, some have suggested moving the start of the golf season to May, giving courses more time to prepare and enjoy settled weather.
Overall, while golf can be played year-round in the UK, the main season from April to September offers the most favourable conditions and the busiest schedule of tournaments.
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Cost of playing golf in England
Golf has traditionally been considered an expensive sport, with the cost of golf club membership, green fees, equipment, clothing, and lessons adding up quickly. While the perception of golf as an elite sport is changing, with more affordable options becoming available, the cost of playing golf in England can still be significant.
One of the biggest costs associated with playing golf is the membership fee for a golf club. According to England Golf, the average price of a full seven-day membership at a club in England is £900 per year, or £75 per month. This can vary depending on the club and its location, with some clubs offering more affordable options, such as flexible and family memberships, to encourage junior golfers and make the sport more accessible.
In addition to membership fees, golfers also need to factor in the cost of green fees, which are the fees charged by the course for each round of golf played. The cost of green fees can vary widely depending on the course, with some of the top courses in England charging several hundred pounds for a single round. For example, Turnberry, one of the most expensive courses in Great Britain and Ireland, charges a peak summertime green fee of £1,000. On the other hand, the lowest green fee on the Top 100 courses list is Seacroft at £85. It's important to note that green fees can also vary depending on the season, with lower fees typically offered during autumn, winter, and summer twilight hours.
Another significant cost of playing golf is the equipment. Golf clubs can range in price from £200 to £5,000 for a set, with beginner sets typically falling on the lower end of the spectrum. In addition to clubs, golfers need to purchase golf balls, with prices starting at around £10 for a dozen. Other equipment, such as gloves, shoes, and clothing, can also add to the overall cost.
Finally, for those new to the sport, lessons with a PGA professional can cost between £20 and £30 for a 30-minute session. Practising at a driving range between lessons can also cost between £5 and £10 per visit, and club hire fees may apply if you don't have your own equipment.
Overall, while there are ways to reduce costs, such as choosing more affordable courses or second-hand equipment, the cost of playing golf in England can be a barrier for some, especially those on a tight budget or with multiple family members interested in the sport.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, golf is incredibly popular in England, with approximately a million active golfers who play at least twice a month. The country has more than 1,872 registered golf courses, which is more than any other country in Europe.
The golf season in England usually starts in April and ends in September.
The cost of playing golf in England varies depending on the quality of the golf course, hotel, and the number of nights. However, golf packages can be booked from as little as £59 per person for one night, including dinner, bed & breakfast, and two rounds of golf.
While you may not always be asked to present your handicap certificate, it is recommended to check with your Golf Travel Expert before arriving at the golf course.
England is home to some of the best and most historic golf courses in the world, including Royal St George's in Kent, Sunningdale Old in Berkshire, and Royal Liverpool, which is the second-oldest seaside links in England.
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